During its annual Facilities Officers Conference in November 2022, the University System of Georgia presented Columbus State University with its Sustainability Award in recognition of the renovation project to the Simon Schwob Memorial Library on the university’s Main Campus. 

In keeping with the university’s core value of sustainability, the library renovation project was recognized as one that “demonstrates a significant impact to the institution and/or system in the areas of historic preservation, energy efficiency, operations, technical innovation, or environmental stewardship.” 

Columbus State University officially cut the ribbon on the renovated library spaces in May 2021 to celebrate the multi-year upgrade of the 50-year-old library. Capital improvements included updates to mechanical and lighting systems, including replacing the entire HVAC system, adding LED lighting upgrades and opening up the concrete building façade on the main level with a new glass-fronted exterior entrance to bring in more natural light. Additional elements included renovating the library archives, study rooms and computer labs. Library visitors will also notice other obvious improvements, including new elevators, the addition of noise-reduction clouds, new carpeting and paint, accessible single-stall restrooms and the renovation of existing restrooms, and a renovated space for Einstein Brothers Bagels.

The project was championed by former longtime State Representative Calvin Smyre, who represented the Columbus area in the 135th district. Design and construction were completed by Garbutt Construction Company, 2WR + Partners, and McMillan Pazden Smith.

“It is a tremendous honor to receive the USG Sustainability Award for the renovation of the Simon Schwob Library building. Implementing the renovation while remaining operational was quite a challenge, but also quite an accomplishment.” said Kelly Wilson, CSU’s former senior executive director of facilities and CSU real estate who led the project. “These renovations will have a significant impact on CSU’s environmental stewardship as well as enhance the student experience for years to come.”

The library is now equipped to accommodate a growing student population. When the Schwob Memorial Library was built in 1971, CSU’s student body was 3,814 — less than half of its current enrollment. In addition to the improved amenities, students are benefiting from the relocation of the university’s CSU Advise undergraduate advising office, and its Academic Center for Tutoring Office. Both are now conveniently located on the library’s second floor.

“The renovation of the Schwob Memorial Library has significantly benefited the entire CSU community. Natural light, efficient use of space, and access to technology throughout the building make for a welcoming environment,” said Alan Karass, dean of libraries. “There is a place for everyone: quiet rooms for study; configurable spaces for collaborative work; a completely revamped bright and sunny archives suite; event space; and open areas for groups. We have been thrilled to see the increase in use by faculty, staff, students, and community members since the renovation has been completed.”

Columbus State University Libraries maintains both the Simon Schwob Memorial Library on Main Campus and a Music Library on the RiverPark Campus. During its 72,500-plus patron visits annually, students, employees and community members benefit from its 398,000-plus volumes, Archives and Special Collections, and wealth of electronic resources. 

For more information about the work done to Schwob Memorial Library can be found at https://columbusstate.libguides.com/csulibreno/About.